Steinway & Sons announced the unveiling of eight new pianos in partnership with the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg’s iconic new concert hall. The limited edition models capture aspects of the ground-breaking design and structure that the landmark has become renowned for. Both Steinway and the Elbphilharmonie stand for excellence in music and outstanding cultural values. Following the opening of Steinway’s SPIRIO Lounge next to the Elbphilharmonie, a thematic and geographical bridge was built between the two cultural institutions, leading to the creation of these stunning grand pianos.

Limited to only eight models, the new collection reflects some of the most striking design elements of the Elbphilharmonie. The silhouette of the building shapes the music stand; an interpretation of the dot matrix on the facade elements can be found on the inside of the lid. The upholstery from the seats in the Grand Hall is used for the design of the piano bench. Available either in classical black lacquer or with oak accents, five of the models are also equipped with SPIRIO, which benefits from Steinway’s partnership with some of the greatest Steinway Artists. The innovative and extremely high-quality player piano system enables the owner to experience the pianists’ performances in their own home as if it was a live performance.

Following its opening in January 2017, the Elbphilharmonie has become a cult destination for music lovers. The Steinway & Sons Elbphilharmonie Limited Edition celebrates the new landmark by offering customers an exclusive piano with “money can’t buy” features. Each instrument sold will be represented by a selected pianist, namely Lucas & Arthur Jussen, Igor Levit, Jan Lisiecki, Brad Mehldau, Daniil Trifonov, Mitsuko Uchida, Anna Vinnitskaya and Yuja Wang, who fully support this project and will serve as the piano’s ‘Godparents‘. Future owners will receive a certificate stating the name of the selected ‘Godparent’; they will also have the rare opportunity to meet the ’Godparent’ of his/her instrument and will receive tickets for a recital in the Elbphilharmonie.

Furthermore, the partnership with the Elbphilharmonie extends beyond the design. €20,000 per instrument sold will be donated to Stiftung Elbphilharmonie, the Elbphilharmonie’s foundation supporting their music education program for children, teenagers and families.

The Steinway & Sons Elbphilharmonie Limited Edition was unveiled to more than 350 guests at Elbphilharmonie Hamburg on the 13th October during a fantastic performance by Limited Edition ‘Godfather’ Brad Mehldau, who played on his own edition which is “No. 1” of the eight grand pianos.

The limited edition pianos are available now. For further information, please contact your local Steinway Hall.